Giving Circle - A Year of Giving Back

Contributed by Sharon Garber, Hesed Chair

The Giving Circle celebration—which took place on October 29—was a fitting close to a fabulous inaugural year that included more than 150 members.

People of all ages came to help, learn, and have fun as they were immersed in social action.

Representative Peggy Flanagan inspired participants as she talked about growing up in poverty, eventually using her position in government to bring light to the fact that it isn't just "those people" using  food shelves and other services—it could be any of us at any given time. Her words energized participants to help reduce food insecurity, fight for affordable housing, and battle against racial injustice.

People schmoozed with all 7 of the local organizations that we helped last year. The celebration included activities for all ages in the areas of food insecurity, housing, and racial justice.

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One popular spot was the Privilege Bead activity, where people answered questions about their privilege and took home a necklace reminding them of their answers.

Another hot spot was Color Me Mine bowl painting. 38 beautiful bowls were decorated and donated to  Robbinsdale's "Empty Bowls" event at Cooper High School, where on March 6th they will be available for purchase from 4-7 pm. All proceeds will go to food shelves PRISM and NEAR.

Both kids and adults took seriously the challenge to sort foods into healthy and not-so-healthy piles, and planned a meal/budget expenses with limited funds. Even lunch provided food for thought, as it included items that can often be found at food shelves.

Our first year of Giving Circle allowed us to give generous checks to all 3 food shelves—PRISM, STEP and ICA.

You can help us do even more this year by joining the Giving Circle. Send a $36.00 check to the Adath main office, ATTN: Hesed in the Memo, or volunteer 3 hours at any combination of PRISM, STEP, ICA or Our Saviour’s Shelter.

Save the date for future events in March for MN Food Share month, and again for the 2nd Annual Giving Circle celebration this coming October, 2018.

You can sign up HERE, or contact Sharon Garber at hesed@adath.net.